Bauska

A historic town anchored by the dramatic ruins and restored sections of Bauska Castle at the confluence of two rivers. Its cobbled old town and riverside setting make it a natural gateway between Rundāle and the Lithuanian border.

Things to do

• Explore Bauska Castle — Wander the medieval ruins of the Livonian Order fortress and the restored 16th-century ducal residence set on a narrow spit between two rivers.
• Climb the castle tower — Ascend the reconstructed tower for panoramic views over the confluence of the Mūsa and Mēmele rivers, which merge to form the Lielupe.
• Stroll the old town square — Walk the cobbled streets and low wooden and brick houses around the historic town center and Town Hall Square.
• Visit the Bauska Town Hall — See the restored 17th-century town hall with its tower, one of the oldest in the Baltics, now housing exhibitions and a viewing platform.
• See the Holy Spirit Lutheran Church — Visit the 16th-century church featuring historic ducal tombs and Baroque interior details.
• Walk to the river confluence — Follow the riverside paths to the point where the Mūsa and Mēmele rivers meet below the castle walls.
• Day trip to Rundāle Palace — Drive a short distance west to the opulent Baroque palace and gardens designed by Rastrelli.
• Attend a castle festival — Time your visit for a historical reenactment or early music event held in the castle grounds during summer.

Food to try

• Sklandrausis — A traditional Latvian rye pastry tart filled with carrot and potato paste, sweetened and spiced with cinnamon.
• Grey peas with bacon — Pelēkie zirņi ar speķi, the hearty national dish of boiled grey peas fried with onions and smoked pork.
• Rye bread — Dark sourdough rupjmaize, a Latvian staple often served fresh from regional bakeries and used in desserts.
• Aukstā zupa — A vivid pink cold beet soup made with kefir, boiled egg and dill, popular in the warm summer months.
• Local beer — Sample regional Zemgale craft or farmhouse beers, a strong brewing tradition in this part of Latvia.
• Rabarberu kūka — Rhubarb cake, a beloved seasonal home-baked treat found in local cafes in late spring and summer.

Local customs & good to know

• Bauska is a gateway, not just a stop — Base yourself here to reach Rundāle Palace, Mežotne Palace and the Lithuanian border, all within a short drive.
• Check castle opening seasons — The castle museum and tower have reduced hours in winter, so verify times before visiting outside summer.
• Bring cash for small vendors — Local market stalls and small cafes may prefer euros in cash, though larger sites accept cards.
• Respect wartime and church memorials — The town has quiet memorial sites and old cemeteries; dress and behave modestly when visiting churches and monuments.

Nearby

• Mežotne Palace — 10 km
• Rundāle Palace (Kurzeme) — 10 km
• Jelgava — 40 km
• Tērvete Nature Park — 51 km